Artur Beterbiev defeated Dmitry Bivol
Artur Beterbiev won and became the undisputed champion
Artur Beterbiev (21-0) is the new undisputed light heavyweight champion after defeating Dmitry Bivol (23-1) to unify the WBO, IBF and WBC titles. The two boxers went head-to-head at the big gala night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. After a contested fight that lasted 12 rounds, the judges awarded the victory to Beterbiev with a score of (114-114, 115-113, 116-112).
With this win, Beterbiev remains undefeated, while Bivol lost his so far perfect streak. Both fighters have expressed a desire for a rematch if it is arranged.
The first round started with cautious play from both sides. Bivol relied on his jab while Beterbiev held the center of the ring. The initiative was in the hands of Bivol, but Beterbiev showed a stable defense. In the second round, Beterbiev increased the pressure and began to use heavier punches, but Bivol continued to rely on his jab.
The third round was more aggressive on Beterbiev’s side as he managed to land some good shots to the body. Bivol moved actively, trying to neutralize the enemy’s attacks. The fourth round saw Beterbiev continue to control the ring, but Bivol was able to land a series of counter punches that gave him some confidence.
As the match progressed, the pace picked up as the two fighters began trading heavy blows. Bivol relied on his speed and movement, while Beterbiev relied on the power of his punches. In the final rounds, Beterbiev showed his superiority and landed heavy punches that put Bivol on the defensive.
In the end, the judges unanimously awarded the victory to Beterbiev, who became the undisputed light heavyweight champion, and Bivol lost his title and perfect record.